What to do when a loved one dies

When someone dear to us dies, it’s difficult to know what to do. In spite of our best efforts in planning, nothing truly prepares us for the loss of a loved one, even though we knew it was coming.

This things-to-do-when-someone-dies checklist offers valuable tips to make remembering all that needs to be done a lot easier.

If you are responsible for arranging the funeral of the deceased, you will have many things to attend to, such as closing bank accounts, closing credit card accounts and cancelling a gym membership. Many of such tasks can add stress to an already emotional and difficult time. That’s why you shouldn’t go it alone. If someone offers their assistance, let them help and then thank them properly afterwards. Delegate tasks whenever possible.

Use this what-to-do-when-someone-dies checklist to make your task easier. Take time to study the checklist on what to do when someone dies list item to determine which tasks can be safely delegated to others, and which ones you should handle yourself.

Arrange for funeral and burial or cremation services

Find insurance policies

Check Social Security benefits

Cancel home deliveries

Notify agent under power of attorney

Find wills and trusts

Find and decide on your loved one’s funeral wishes

Have Post Office hold mail

Notify the deceased’s doctor or coroner

Arrange care for dependents, if any

Should the deceased wish to donate organs or tissue, this needs to be accomplished immediately

Arrange for care of pets

Arrange for care or disposal of plants, food and other perishable property